Banner

L'Art de Vivre

Classic Cruise – Burgundy

Classic Cruise – Burgundy

ITINERARY*

Sunday, Day 1 Auxerre

Guests are met at our meeting point in Paris** and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the pretty L’Art de Vivre. Following a champagne welcome, you are free to explore the medieval town of Auxerre or take a stroll along the banks of the River Yonne before returning for dinner on board.

Monday, Day 2 Auxerre to Vincelles

Our morning cruise starts early and takes us through some delightful locks and past vineyard-clad hillsides to our rural mooring at Vincelles.  Following lunch on board, we head to the quarry of Aubigny, a subterranean wonderland of stonework which is famous for the limestone used on buildings such as the Paris Opera House, here we explore this uniquely atmospheric underground space.  Afterwards, we visit the cellars of Bailly-Lapierre, also carved out of the rock, to taste some their sparkling Crémant de Bourgogne. Dinner on board.

Tuesday, Day 3 Vincelles to Mailly-la-Ville

Following an early breakfast, we discover the medieval town of Auxerre. Later, we tour the centre of what was originally the capital of Lower Burgundy, with its lavish Renaissance houses, fine churches and particularly its magnificent cathedral situated close to the river. We then return to the hotel barge for a cruise southward through rich pasturelands and past grazing Charolais cattle, to the sleepy village of Mailly-la-Ville. After your relaxed lunch on board, perhaps this is a good time to enjoy a walk or bicycle ride along the towpath. Dinner on board.

Wednesday, Day 4 Mailly-la-Ville to Le Saussois

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, we head to the celebrated wine village of Chablis. After viewing the vineyards, we make a private visit to the prestigious Domaine Laroche for a wine-tasting, followed by a tour of the 1000 years old Obédiencerie; originally part of the monastery of St. Martin, this is where the monks developed the craft of winemaking in the Middle Ages and to this day it remains the location for aging the wines. Lunch will be served by a private chef in the Domaine’s dining hall. Later in the afternoon we return to the barge to cruise past the cliffs at Le Saussois, a stunning natural setting with an international climbing centre. There will also be the opportunity to enjoy delightful walks or bicycle rides along the towpath. Dinner onboard.

Thursday, Day 5 Le Saussois to Lucy-sur-Yonne

Our morning cruise is through the picturesque Yonne Valley to our mooring at Lucy-sur-Yonne. After lunch on board, we enjoy an excursion to the pilgrimage town of Vézelay, one of Burgundy’s most famous treasures with the Romanesque Basilica of St Mary Magdalene, craft shops and fine views of the surrounding countryside. Dinner on board.

Friday, Day 6 Lucy-sur-Yonne to Chevroches

A morning cruise through beautiful countryside takes us to our final mooring at the pretty canalside village of Chevroches, where we’ll visit the elegant Château de Bazoches, built in the 12th century and whose illustrious visitors included Richard the Lionheart. The château was later remodelled by Maréchal Vauban and there are wonderful views from its elevated hillside setting. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon at leisure – perfect for a bicycle ride, or a walk along the towpaths before the Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board.

Saturday, Day 7 Chevroches

After breakfast, guests are transferred to Paris**.

This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change.
On alternate weeks, the cruise will be in the reverse direction.
**other locations available for private Charter bookings.

CONTACT US ABOUT THIS CRUISE

I confirm that I have read and agree to European Waterways Privacy Policy.

Cruise Route

L'Art de Vivre Burgundy Cruise Map

Photo Gallery

L'Art de Vivre

L'Art de Vivre barge cruising

L’Art de Vivre is a first class, 8 passenger hotel barge that cruises the charming Canal du Nivernais and River Yonne in Burgundy

8 Passengers 4 Crew More Details

Related Articles

Discover Auxerre: Cathedral, Old Town, Wines & More…

The French city of Auxerre is a dwelling frozen in time. Whilst you’re wandering around, it’s easy to forget you’re in France, and think you’re in a fairy-tale! Read More

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Burgundy, France

Burgundy is one of the most idyllic regions in rural France. With so many beautiful places to explore, you’ll need our Top 10 guide to see the best bits! Read More

The Historic Town of Vézelay in Burgundy

Located fifty kilometres south of Auxerre, Vézelay offers a rich tapestry of culture, tradition and history amidst spectacular surrounds... Read More

The Ultimate Guide to the River Yonne

The River Yonne is one of the most important rivers in Burgundy, extending from Auxerre, where it joins the Canal du Nivernais Read More

New and Enhanced Wine Tours in 2023

Private Tastings, Tours and Unique Dining Experiences Reveal the History and Traditions of France’s Renowned Wine Growing Regions Read More

The Ultimate Guide to the Burgundy Canal

The Ultimate Guide to the Burgundy Canal - History, interesting facts, maps, nearby towns and villages, places of interest and lots more! Read More

X